These shrimp quesadillas are packed with yummy shrimp, gooey cheese, and a hint of spice, all tucked inside a warm tortilla. Quick to make, they’re perfect for a tasty lunch or dinner!
Who doesn’t love cheese that stretches out as you take a bite? I always add a bit of extra salsa on the side. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for dipping! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is key here for the best flavor. I find that medium shrimp works well, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp can also do the trick. Just be sure to thaw and dry them properly before cooking!
Olive Oil: This is great for cooking shrimp, but feel free to substitute with avocado oil or vegetable oil if that’s what you have. I’ve used butter before, and it adds a rich flavor that you’ll love!
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and pliable, but corn tortillas are a tasty gluten-free alternative! You could also use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option.
Cheese: I like a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that gooey texture. If you’d like a kick, try pepper jack cheese. Mozzarella also works well if you prefer a milder flavor.
How Do I Get My Quesadillas Perfectly Crispy?
To achieve that crispy quesadilla, keep these steps in mind:
- Use medium heat. If it’s too high, the outside will burn before the cheese melts.
- Don’t overload your quesadilla! Less is more; a good balance of filling and cheese will help keep it crispy.
- Let it cook until the bottom is golden brown before you flip it. A good hint is to check the edges for color.
- Press down gently with a spatula while cooking to help seal it and make those edges crispier.
With these tips, your shrimp quesadillas will not only taste amazing but look great too! Enjoy with a squeeze of lime and dipping sauces on the side!
Delicious Shrimp Quesadillas Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Quesadilla:
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined (small to medium size)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Optional: guacamole and salsa, for serving
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes approximately 10 minutes of prep time and about 15 minutes of cooking time, making it quick and easy to whip up. You’ll have delicious shrimp quesadillas ready in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated with the seasonings.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Quesadilla:
Wipe out the skillet to remove any remaining shrimp pieces and reduce the heat to medium. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese evenly on top. Then, add half of the cooked shrimp, followed by diced tomatoes or pico de gallo, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Top it with the remaining cheese and cover with a second tortilla.
4. Cook the Quesadilla:
Cook the quesadilla for about 2-3 minutes, until the bottom tortilla is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Carefully flip the quesadilla using a large spatula and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes, until it is also golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool slightly before slicing it into wedges. Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients to make the second quesadilla. Serve warm with lime wedges, guacamole, and salsa on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy shrimp quesadillas loaded with flavor and delicious toppings!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes, or simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
How Can I Make These Quesadillas Spicier?
If you’d like to add more heat, consider using diced jalapeños or a spicy cheese like pepper jack. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or add a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the shrimp mixture!
Can I Make Quesadillas Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the shrimp and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking. However, I recommend assembling the quesadillas right before cooking to keep the tortillas crispy. You can also make a batch and reheat them in a skillet or the oven for later enjoyment!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Enjoy!
